Wandering & Dementia : 5 Safer Door & Home Safety Ideas
- caringhandskindhea
- Aug 18
- 2 min read
Wandering can be a frightening concern for families caring for someone living with dementia. A loved one may become confused about where they are, believe they need to go somewhere, or simply feel the need to walk.
A few thoughtful changes around the home can help reduce the risk of someone leaving unnoticed while still keeping the environment comfortable and familiar.
Here are five door and home safety ideas caregivers can consider.
High or low secondary locks — placing a latch or deadbolt outside the person's usual line of sight may reduce attempts to open an exterior door.
Door-opening alarms/chimes — these alert the caregiver rather than physically preventing the person from leaving.
Door camouflage — curtains, screens or making the door visually blend with the wall can make an exit less noticeable.
Keep departure cues out of sight — coats, purses, hats, shoes and keys can sometimes trigger the feeling that it's time to leave.
Create a safer walking area — an enclosed yard or garden can give someone an opportunity to move around rather than simply trying to stop the walking.
I would not call any lock “dementia-proof.” Door locking can become an emergency/fire exit issue, and the Alzheimer Society of Canada considers a locked door an environmental restraint. The goal should be balancing safety with the person's freedom and dignity.
Free Wandering Safety Plan
Planning ahead can make a stressful situation a little easier. I created this free 3-page Wandering Safety Plan to help caregivers keep important information, possible triggers, calming strategies and emergency details together in one place.
Looking for calming ways to keep your loved one engaged?
Sometimes a familiar activity, gentle movement, music, or a simple task can provide comfort and meaningful engagement.
Explore my free Dementia Activities Mini App for easy activity ideas you can try at home.
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